Fire damages Commodore Chocolatier candy store last night

Wednesday

Jun 27, 2007 at 2:00 AM

Doyle Murphy

City of Newburgh - A popular chocolate shop caught fire last night in the city’s downtown.

The city fire department arrived before 8 p.m. at the Commodore Chocolatier, 480 Broadway, to find flames coming out of the east side of the building. Chief James Merritt said firefighters were able to control the blaze within 10 minutes. The response saved the three-story building from structural damage and held the fire to the first floor, but much of the store’s stock – chocolates and other sweets – was probably ruined by the heat, Merritt said.

The Commodore has been a fixture in the city’s downtown since 1935. In the past, it’s hosted “make your own candy cane” demonstrations and been a frequent stop for shoppers near Valentine’s Day, Christmas and Easter.

Last night, the doors hung open and fire hoses stretched inside. Merritt said investigators were still trying to figure out what started the fire.